2022 Subaru CrossTrek Spark Plug Change - OMG

[sp73]

Just venting. Had the car in for state inspection at around 65K and the shop gave me $1500 in things that "NEEDED" to be done.

- Front/Rear Diff Gear Oil --> Done
- CVT Fluid --> Done earlier by me
- Brake Fluid --> NOPE. It's good.
- Spark Plugs --> Done... shop price

I've never had a worse time changing plugs on any car, more specifically the driver side rear one. Good Lord. I must have tried every wobble and extension length I have, alternating between 1/4" and 3/8" ratchets. You have to insert one tool segment at a time due to super tight clearance issues with the body. I watched a couple YouTube heroes... didn't see that I was doing anything really different. It took hours and I am glad it's done...

I used factory gear oil and the recommended NGK plugs. Spent less than $200 on fluids, plugs, and a T70 socket for the front diff. Right now not sure I'd do the plugs myself again... but give it enough time and we will see.

 

[Adkcedarman]

They wanted those things done in order to pass a state inspection? None of those things should quantify failing a state inspection in any state that I’m aware of - and I’m heavily involved in nationwide laws and standards for NIHS and MVTL.

 

[D60]

Welcome to Subie.

I'd consider removing the engine mount nut and jacking up that side from the oil pan. It's surprisingly easy.

Also diff is T70, not 70mm

 

[Hirev]

The subaru tax with their spark plugs placement is real. Wonder what a shop charges these days for sabaru plug replacement?

 

[Trav]

Welcome to Subie.

I'd consider removing the engine mount nut and jacking up that side from the oil pan. It's surprisingly easy.

Also diff is T70, not 70mm

+1, 2 x 14mm nuts, I usually pull the lower dog bone bolt on the engine rear also 14mm, it makes the job so much easier. Remove the battery and air cleaner box and the whole job is about an hour if that.

 

[JohnnyG]

They wanted those things done in order to pass a state inspection? None of those things should quantify failing a state inspection in any state that I’m aware of - and I’m heavily involved in nationwide laws and standards for NIHS and MVTL.

I don't think he said they needed done to pass, just additional stuff that they wanted to do to make a few extra buck.

 

[Adkcedarman]

I don't think he said they needed done to pass, just additional stuff that they wanted to do to make a few extra buck.

I’m hoping - but the wording seemed to imply with the all caps “NEEDED” that they wouldn’t pass it without this work being done. Sorry, attention to detail has my been life since I was 14.

 

[Trav]

Just venting. Had the car in for state inspection at around 65K and the shop gave me $1500 in things that "NEEDED" to be done.

- Front/Rear Diff Gear Oil --> Done
- CVT Fluid --> Done earlier by me
- Brake Fluid --> NOPE. It's good.
- Spark Plugs --> Done... shop price

I've never had a worse time changing plugs on any car, more specifically the driver side rear one. Good Lord. I must have tried every wobble and extension length I have, alternating between 1/4" and 3/8" ratchets. You have to insert one tool segment at a time due to super tight clearance issues with the body. I watched a couple YouTube heroes... didn't see that I was doing anything really different. It took hours and I am glad it's done...

I used factory gear oil and the recommended NGK plugs. Spent less than $200 on fluids, plugs, and a 70mm socket for the front diff. Right now not sure I'd do the plugs myself again... but give it enough time and we will see.

Count your blessings that oil didn't come out with the plugs, then the fun really begins.

 

[sp73]

Needed was meant to be tongue in cheek. I should have been more clear!

 

[sp73]

Welcome to Subie.

I'd consider removing the engine mount nut and jacking up that side from the oil pan. It's surprisingly easy.

Also diff is T70, not 70mm

Huh. Great tip!! Also I need to correct myself… it was a T70.

 

[Chris142]

I've never had a worse time changing plugs on any car, more specifically the driver side rear one. Good Lord. I must have tried every wobble and extension length I have, alternating between 1/4" and 3/8" ratchets. You have to insert one tool segment at a time due to super tight clearance issues with the body. I watched a couple YouTube heroes... didn't see that I was doing anything really different. It took hours and I am glad it's done...

I did 8 plugs on a jaguar and all 8 were like you described. Plus I had to drain the cooling system as some plastic coolant pipes are blocking what little plug acess I had.